### Understanding the Increase in RSV Cases in Florida and Georgia **What is RSV?** Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. **Current Situation** As of September 6, 2023, there has been a noticeable increase in RSV cases in Florida and Georgia, signaling the start of the RSV season. The CDC has issued a national alert, urging health officials to offer new medicines to prevent severe cases, particularly in very young children and older people who are at the highest risk of complications. **Statistics** Typically, the RSV season starts when the rate of positive tests for the virus exceeds 3% for two consecutive weeks. In Florida, the rate has been around 5% recently, and Georgia has seen an increase in RSV-related hospitalizations, especially among infants under a year old. **Complications and Preventive Measures** One of the severe complications of RSV is bronchiolitis, which causes the narrowing of small airways in the lungs due to swelling, leading to wheezing. Historically, up to 80,000 children under 5 years old are hospitalized annually due to RSV, with 100 to 300 deaths from complications each year. **New Treatments** This year, new preventive treatments are available. The CDC recommends that all children under 8 months old receive the newly approved monoclonal antibody treatment nirsevimab (Beyfortus). Children up to 19 months old at high risk of severe complications from RSV are also eligible for this single-dose shot, which has been 80% effective in clinical trials at preventing severe RSV infections. Older adults are also at risk, and two new vaccines, Arexvy and Abrysvo, are available for people aged 60 and older. These vaccines are more than 80% effective at reducing severe lower respiratory complications. **Conclusion** Last year, the RSV season started in the summer and peaked in October and November. While it's unclear when the peak will occur this year, the availability of new treatments and vaccines offers hope for better management of the virus.